Inspirational Chris completes 1000+ mile walk

14th June 2016

On Wednesday 15th June, exactly two months after he started, Chris Cottam, 57 from Wokingham, Berkshire completed his epic ‘BIG JOGLE’ challenge – a 1,000 mile walk from John O’Groats to Land’s End to raise funds for three charities close to his heart; Cure Leukaemia, Breast Cancer UK and the Holt School in Wokingham.

Chris decided to take on the iconic route, usually tackled by cyclists, and make it truly ‘BIG’ by not only walking over 1,000 miles but by adding climbs of the three highest peaks in the UK; Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike and Snowdon – all of which he completed by the end of May.

He has tackled deep snow, searing heat; huge blisters and heavy traffic so far but has kept his spirits high throughout.

Chris has received great video messages of support from cricketing legends Sir Ian Botham, Ian Bell MBE, Jonathan Trott and broadcaster and writer Adrian Chiles has shown his support:

He’s also had encouragement from Cure Leukaemia funded specialist research nurse Kate Arthur and current 20-year-old blood cancer patient Jaymz Goodman who will directly benefit from the funds raised for Cure Leukaemia. Click the link below to watch the video:

Chris’ wife Hazel has successfully battled breast cancer twice hence his support of the UK’s leading Breast Cancer prevention charity Breast Cancer UK. Chris has lost a number of family, friends and associates to blood cancer culminating in the passing of his sister-in-law Ruxi last year so he has chosen to fundraise for Cure Leukaemia. As a Governor of the Holt School Chris is keen to help the school build a new sixth form centre hence the support for their charitable trust.

Chris began his journey on Friday 15th April and at the finish had completed 1,081 miles in 60 days with 2,034,530 steps taken and he will be holding a celebratory dinner on July 1st to raise further funds.

Chris, who lives in the village of Winnersh said:

“I’ve enjoyed every second of this challenge. I have met some amazing people along the way and been touched by the great messages of support I have received.

I’d like to thank everyone who has donated and shown support. Whilst this challenge was tough, I knew all along that I was doing it for three wonderful causes, and that kept me going.”